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Best Waterproof Stage 1 Air Cleaner?

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Old Jan 16, 2019 | 02:03 PM
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Question Best Waterproof Stage 1 Air Cleaner?

Looking to get a fuel system and air intake to upgrade to Stage 1 over the winter, and I am wondering if there is a full air-cleaner assembly that is known to be waterproof? Or do you have to go with a rain sock no matter what?

Thanks!
 
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Old Jan 16, 2019 | 02:15 PM
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Originally Posted by OldMonty
Looking to get a fuel system and air intake to upgrade to Stage 1 over the winter, and I am wondering if there is a full air-cleaner assembly that is known to be waterproof? Or do you have to go with a rain sock no matter what?

Thanks!
I have found that the round open air cleaner seem to do well in the rain without a sock. I assume it is because it can draw from the back side that tends to be dry. The only time I have ever noticed a problem was when trying to out run a tornado in a heavy rain going well over 100mph and there would be an occasional miss. Never knew for sure if it was because of water or

not but I do know the 05 Road King did out run the Tornado and we rode over 100 mph in rain for many miles.
 
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Old Jan 16, 2019 | 11:06 PM
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I also decided to do a Stage 1 upgrade on my 2017 Superlow 1200T. After driving myself and others nuts for about six weeks on what components to include in the upgrade, I finally settled on an HD Screaming Eagle Stage 1 Air Cleaner Kit (HD part # 29782-07). This decision was based upon the recommendation of a mechanic I trust at my HD dealer. One of the reasons he recommends this air cleaner is because it doesn't require a rain sock to be pretty water resistant, certainly good enough for Las Vegas. I like the looks of it because it maintains the stock look. But, be aware that it is only for certain models of a Sportster and won't be the one you want if you plan to go on to Stage 2 or higher modifications. Since I plan to stop at the Stage 1 modification, this is not a problem to me.

FYI: I plan to write a post on the conversion, along with pictures, after I finish the work this weekend. The other components I am using are a Vance & Hines FP3 and V&H Twin Slash 3" slip-on mufflers.
 
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Old Jan 17, 2019 | 03:59 AM
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There is no such thing! While our engines are running in the rain they will draw wet air in through the air filter. The stock airbox is the most weather-resistant design as air, hence rain, can only get in through the air inlet. The next best alternative IMHO is a dish-shaped cover which hides the filter element from view, so it doesn't get wet while parked.
 
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Old Jan 17, 2019 | 04:11 AM
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The more you pay, the more HP you will get..................
 
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Old Jan 17, 2019 | 01:36 PM
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Originally Posted by Mattgraham
Wow, is that how you pack your gear on a road trip? Not sure I'd want to be following you on my bike, or even my truck. One good pothole, and you'd be having a "yard sale."

John
 
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Old Jan 17, 2019 | 01:39 PM
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Originally Posted by John Harper
Wow, is that how you pack your gear on a road trip? Not sure I'd want to be following you on my bike, or even my truck. One good pothole, and you'd be having a "yard sale."

John
Indeed, there are tourpaks for that 'stuff'!
 
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Old Jan 17, 2019 | 06:49 PM
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If not a TourPak get some Rok Straps instead of those bungees.

https://www.jpcycles.com/product/445...gaAsuFEALw_wcB
 

Last edited by kuri77; Jan 17, 2019 at 06:51 PM. Reason: add link
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Old Jan 17, 2019 | 10:04 PM
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Originally Posted by OldMonty
Looking to get a fuel system and air intake to upgrade to Stage 1 over the winter, and I am wondering if there is a full air-cleaner assembly that is known to be waterproof? Or do you have to go with a rain sock no matter what?

Thanks!
There are huge differences between air cleaners...very few of them are truly performance oriented...regardless of the marketing hype. Check out this LINK to learn about the differences between typical air cleaners and the few companies that make better ones.

Here are a couple of set-ups of True Performance Air Cleaners "best" that do not require a rain sock, even in the most heavy downpour.









Both of the above are 587 Complete Systems and more photos can be seen HERE. The cover completely covers the filter element from water hitting it from above and from driving into it while riding.

 
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Old Jan 18, 2019 | 04:37 AM
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Putting aside the crankcase breather issue, I went with the Screamin Eagle air cleaner as it keeps the stock look of the bike.

Attachment 619158
 
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